Dominican Migrant Suspected in Family of Four Murders in New York

Dominican Migrant Suspected in Family of Four Murders in New York

2 minute read
Published: 9/14/2024

Julio Cesar Pimentel-Soriano, an illegal migrant from the Dominican Republic, is accused of brutally murdering a family of four in Irondequoit, New York, as authorities unveil shocking details of the August 31 tragedy.

The brutal stabbings of Fraime Ubaldo, Marangely Moreno-Santiago, and their two young children have shaken the Irondequoit community, highlighting urgent concerns about public safety amid ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement. Pimentel-Soriano, already wanted in connection with a prior homicide in the Dominican Republic, is believed to have entered the U.S. illegally, raising further questions on how to address violent crime involving undocumented immigrants.

The tragic events unfolded on August 31, 2024, when firefighters responding to a series of fires at the Ubaldo family’s home discovered the four victims. Fraime Ubaldo, 30, his partner Marangely Moreno-Santiago, 26, and their young children, Evangeline, 4, and Sebastian, 2, were found brutally stabbed in the neck and chest. The horrific crime scene shocked emergency responders and law enforcement officials alike.

Irondequoit Police Chief Scott Peters, who has served in the role for 32 years, remarked that he had never witnessed such a violent crime. Describing the scene as horrific, Peters conveyed the emotional toll the incident has taken on the community. Officials have described the Ubaldo family as well-liked and active members of Irondequoit, making the loss even more heartbreaking for those who knew them.

Pimentel-Soriano was arrested on September 7, 2024, approximately a week after the murders. The arrest came as investigators worked to piece together the timeline and circumstances leading to the deaths of the Ubaldo family. Prosecutors have labeled the accusations against him as troubling, with Assistant District Attorney Perry Duckles expressing the difficulty in coping with the case's details.

According to reports, Pimentel-Soriano entered Puerto Rico illegally and then obtained fraudulent identification that allowed him to travel to the U.S. mainland. His previous criminal history includes a warrant for homicide issued in the Dominican Republic in 2019, raising concerns about the border security and immigration policies in place.

In the aftermath of the murders, the Irondequoit community responded with grief and solidarity. A makeshift vigil was established outside the Moreno family home, featuring stuffed animals and photographs of the victims, serving as a poignant tribute to their lives and the impact they had on the community.

Irondequoit Town Supervisor Andrae Evans expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims' family, friends, and neighbors. Evans assured the public of collaboration with law enforcement to seek justice for the Ubaldo family and address the safety concerns that have arisen from this tragic incident.

The investigation into the murders has proceeded to a grand jury, where further legal proceedings will determine the next steps for Pimentel-Soriano. Authorities are prepared to navigate the complexities of this case, shedding light on the deeper issues surrounding immigration, public safety, and violent crime in the region.